When four beats six: family sedans: the best four-cylinder sedans can hold their own against many V6 rivals.

When looking at moderately-priced family sedans, you might find yourself choosing between a four-cylinder, lower-end version of a highly-rated model and a V6, amply-equipped version of a midpack model.

Given that premise, we lined up two four-cylinder family sedans, the Toyota Camry LE and Nissan Altima 2.5 S, against the V6-powered Mitsubishi Galant GTS and Pontiac G6. Prices ranged from $21,574 for the Camry to $27,094 for the fully-loaded Galant. (A V6 Camry or Altima equipped similarly to the Galant would list for about $29,000.) We also tested a hatchback version of the Chevrolet Malibu, the Malibu Maxx, which also has a V6 (see page 59 for the Auto-Test Extra report).

In this group, both four-cylinder cars achieved higher overall scores than the two V6 models. This illustrates that when you consider all aspects of performance, including fuel economy, a higher-rated four-cylinder family sedan can be a better all-around car than a middling car with a V6.

Among the two dozen family sedans we've tested recently, the Altima and Galant finished about mid-heap. The Camry finished among the top models, and the G6, near the bottom. The V6 versions of the Camry and Accord remain among our highest-rated family sedans.

We recommend the Camry and Altima from this group. We don't have reliability information for the Galant, which ranks not far beneath the Altima, or the new G6.

The Camry received a mild facelift as well as a five-speed automatic transmission for 2005. It is capable, well-finished, roomy, and rides comfortably The new transmission is very smooth but didn't make a significant difference in acceleration or fuel economy.

The 2005 Nissan Altima was also refreshed, and the quality and fit of interior materials has somewhat improved. The Altima is quick and roomy, but it has a relatively stiff ride and measurable engine, wind, and road noise in the cabin.